To me a timely response is important in case I need to find an alternate provider.  I also find that providers who are well organized seem to have less issues scheduling and keeping appointments.  

The one thing that is concerning sometimes is when you are unsure if you are conversing with the provider or her assistant

but I would book with a truly great provider regardless. Two of my absolute favorite providers use assistants in different ways. But, when I feel the itch to see one of them, it's not really a consideration. For one of them, I interact exclusively with the assistant. The other provider does see messages which means that she can, and does, respond to the more personal ones (the assistant will flag certain messages for her). We once had a discussion about bringing in another favorite provider of mine for a threesome. So, discussions can get quite personal even with the assistant listening in. I would definitely go with the latter approach.
While I do occasionally feel awkward sending a personal message (say about things in our last date that I particularly enjoyed) which I know will be read first by the assistant, I also recognize that having the assistant there has made it easier for me to enjoy the companionship of these young ladies. For example, I know that in some cases, absent the assistant's help, we would not have been able to book a hotel for the next morning. Like I said, I think it would be good if you could see the more personal messages and respond to them. I think it's also really important to make it clear in the email who's responding, whether it's you or the assistant. Otherwise, guys can feel that you are really being fake and impersonal. So, the key if getting the right assistant who knows when to step out of the way.
I have not had the pleasure of your company yet Holly, but I suspect most of your admirers would  still be there for you. Maybe if you get that assistant, you and I can finally get our schedules to work out. Now, that would be great.

Hi Holly,  

One thing I would just caution is that it may give the illusion that you are a high volume provider. I'm not sure if that affects any potential bookings. Sometimes an auto response on email when you are not available acknowledging the message with a promise of a response within a brief turnaround time will do it. For me personally, I am more than happy to wait for someone who is well reviewed, beautiful and delivers great service.  Just my .02 cents.

As long as it's clear who is who in responses, not a problem for me.  For example, I don't want to email your assistant about my plushy fetish if I think it's you on the other end.  That's embarrassing enough for me as is without one more person knowing.

Plus a prompt reply to an email is hot.

Thanks for asking, Holly! Was wondering the same thing. I used to have an assistant but started taking over my own bookings/screenings and realized how much work it is, especially for someone who is a Luddite like me!  

I am considering getting an assistant so I can have more time to focus on my writing pursuits and not have to constantly be on my phone or laptop. However, I don't want to lose the personal touch of interacting with my client before the appointment and already establishing a rapport/connection from before they even step foot in the door.  

It's also really nice to know someone's interests and turn-ons ahead of time, which is certainly very intimate and as some gents have expressed, can be a bit embarrassing if they realize a third party is listening in.

Anyway, definitely helpful to hear everyone's feedback! Good luck figuring it out Holly!

not at all- love that personal touch after I have been verified

As to yes or no for scheduling, screening, etc. via email I guess it wouldn't be a bad idea.  I for one wouldn't want phone contact with anyone other than the provider herself for confirmations and final response during the two calls on the day of the date.  Keep in mind though, the more people you have involved the more complicated it can get with miscommunication between you and your assistant even.

Personally, never had a problem with assistants.  In fact, I remember once where I was making the second call to a provider I had seen several times, and there was no answer.  I contacted the assistant, who was monitoring, and she eventually made contact.  Bottom line: Appointment was delayed by an hour, but all that ends well...

I don't mind working with an assistant but do find it less personal. Admittedly, I will more likely see a lady who I can communicate with.  For me it works best when the assistant does the grunt work but the lady takes over at the end with the communication. It is you we want to talk to and see not your assistant